Registering a company in Kenya presents an excellent opportunity for businesses and entrepreneurs worldwide, aiming to tap into a region marked by rapid economic growth and innovation. Understanding the intricacies and processes involved is crucial to successfully integrating and thriving in this dynamic market.

The Thriving Kenyan Business Landscape

Kenya, known for its vibrant and resilient economy, has emerged as a prime destination for entrepreneurs and investors globally. Following impressive economic recovery post-pandemic, the country offers a strategic hub for business operations in East Africa. The government actively encourages foreign investments through reforms facilitating easier business operations and registration.

Recent statistics reveal a GDP growth rate of over 5% in mid-2023, reflecting a positive outlook. This growth is fuelled by innovations in sectors such as ICT and renewable energy. The government’s intent is clear—making Kenya a global trade powerhouse.

Exploring Business Entity Options

Before embarking on company registration in Kenya, it’s essential to understand the types of business entities available. Choosing the right type lays a solid foundation for your business operations:

• Sole Proprietorship: Ideal for small, single-owner businesses, with minimal setup requirements. However, it implies unlimited liability.
• Partnership: Suitable for ventures with shared ownership between two or more individuals, with some liability sharing.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most popular choice for medium to large businesses, offering liability protection and separate legal identity from owners.
• Branch Office: Perfect for foreign companies establishing local operations, maintaining status as part of the parent company.
• Company Limited by Guarantee: Generally used for non-profit ventures, focusing on particular social or charitable objectives.

Choosing the right entity depends on factors such as liability concerns, taxation expectations, and operational scope.

Why Should You Register a Business Name in Kenya?

If you’re running a business in Kenya, registering your business name is a big deal. It’s not just a legal requirement; it comes with some awesome perks that can really help your business grow.

Here’s why you should definitely consider it:

Build Trust and Credibility
A registered business looks way more legit, and people are more likely to trust you. When customers and other businesses see that you’re official, they’re more comfortable working with you. Plus, having a business bank account in your company’s name shows that you’re serious, which builds even more trust. It’s also a big bonus when applying for tenders or contracts.

Open a Business Bank Account
With a registered business name, you can open a business bank account. This makes it super easy to get paid and keeps your business finances separate from your personal ones, simplifying your bookkeeping and taxes. Having a business account also makes it easier to get loans when you need them.

Boost Your Borrowing Power
Speaking of loans, registering your business can increase your borrowing power. Banks and other financial institutions are more likely to trust a registered business, so you can access better loan rates and credit options, especially if you’re a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME).

Get Legal Protection
If things ever go south, having a registered business can protect you legally. This separates your personal finances from the business, so you’re not personally on the hook if the company faces financial trouble.

M-Pesa Business Till Number
Registering your business also gives you access to an M-Pesa business till number. This makes it super easy for your customers to pay you, and you can even use it to pay your suppliers without needing to hit up a bank. Plus, you can withdraw your money whenever you need it, keeping things convenient and flexible.

What is the Cost of Registering a Business Name in Kenya in 2025?

In 2024 the cost was Ksh. 950 and we expect the fees to rise in 2025. Upon payment of the filing fee, you will receive a receipt of payment.
Note that you can make Payments directly from the website portal or to the bank. They have an m-pesa payment option. Just follow the instructions given.

• Prepare the required documents for upload. You will need to prepare a signed copy of the pre-registration documents and upload a scanned copy to the website for processing. These documents include copies of national IDs of the business owners, Copies of the KRA PIN Certificate of the business owners, and Passport photos.
• Submit the Original Copies of Your Documents. You will get feedback on your registration within 1-2 working days.

How Much Does It Cost To Register a Company In Kenya in 2025?

The cost of registering a company in Kenya is determined by the type of business you are registering. In 2024 it costs anywhere between KES. 950 to KES. 25,000 and costs are expected to rise in 2025.

As of 2024 the breakdown of the costs you will incur when registering a business name in Kenya:

• Registration of Business name – KES 950
• Private Limited Company – KES 10,650
• Public Limited Company  – KES 10,650
• Unlimited Companies – KES 20,050
• Company Limited by guarantee – KES 10,000
• Limited Liability Partnership- KES 25,000

Full Guide to Registering a Company in Kenya

Registering a company in Kenya is a relatively straightforward process. However, it is important to follow the correct procedures and meet all the necessary requirements to ensure a smooth registration process. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of company registration in Kenya.

Step 1: Choose a Business Name

The first step in the company registration process is to choose a unique business name. The name should not be similar to any existing company names and should not infringe on any trademarks. You can check the availability of your chosen name by conducting a search on the eCitizen website or by visiting the Registrar of Companies office.

Step 2: Reserve the Business Name

Business name (sole proprietorship) is a business structure operated and owned by one person. The owner is the sole decision maker in the business and is liable for all the losses and returns of the business. In most cases it is usually a business structure for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs)

Once you have chosen a business name, you need to reserve it with the Registrar of Companies. To do this, you will need to complete a Name Reservation Form and pay the required fee. The reservation is valid for 30 days, during which time you can proceed with the company registration process.

The registration is done online through the eCitizen portal.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

Before you can register your company, you will need to gather the necessary documents. The required documents may vary depending on the type of company you are registering, but generally include:

• Memorandum and Articles of Association
• Completed Company Registration Form
• Copy of ID or Passport of Directors and Shareholders
• Copy of PIN Certificate for Directors and Shareholders
• Copy of KRA Tax Compliance Certificate
• Proof of Address for the Registered Office

Make sure to have all the required documents in order before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Register the Company

With all the necessary documents prepared, you can now proceed with the company registration. This can be done online through the eCitizen website or in person at the Registrar of Companies office.

If you choose to register online, you will need to create an account on the eCitizen website and follow the instructions to complete the registration process. You will need to upload the required documents and pay the registration fee online.

If you prefer to register in person, you will need to visit the Registrar of Companies office and submit the required documents. You will also need to pay the registration fee at the office.

Step 5: Obtain the Certificate of Incorporation

Once your business registration is complete, you will get a notification to your registered email. Log into your eCitizen account to check the status of your business.

You will get a certificate of incorporation, which indicates that your business is now registered under the name you provided. It also contains details of the registration date.

Download this certificate of incorporation. It is your proof that your business is registered.

You will need this certificate for all your official business activities like signing contracts, opening a business bank account, applying for funding, applying for tenders, and more.

Step 6: Register for Taxes

After obtaining the Certificate of Incorporation, the next step is to register for taxes. You will need to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). This can be done online through the KRA iTax portal or in person at the nearest KRA office.

During the tax registration process, you will need to provide information about your company, such as its business activities and estimated turnover. You will also need to submit the necessary supporting documents, such as the Certificate of Incorporation and copies of ID or Passport for the directors and shareholders.

Step 7: Open a Bank Account

You’ll need to keep business, and personal finances separate by opening a business bank. A business bank account can help you make bookkeeping easy and establish your business’s credit history. It also makes it easier for you be able to get a loan facility from a bank.

A business bank account helps you look more professional to your clients and suppliers.

Using a personal bank account may make people assume that you are just out, don’t believe that your business will last, or don’t want to establish your business as a legitimate entity.

Most banks in Kenya require the following documents to open a corporate bank account:

• Copy of the Certificate of Incorporation
• Copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association
• Copy of the TIN Certificate
• Copy of ID or Passport for the directors and shareholders
• Proof of Address for the company

Make sure to check with your chosen bank for any additional requirements or procedures.

Step 8: Apply For an M-PESA Business Till

Safaricom’s Lipa Na Mpesa service allows businesses to receive customer payments for goods and services. This service is embedded in the Safaricom mpesa menu and has made business transactions easier.

The Till is a unique number where customers make payments and receive an SMS notification. It is a SIM card created mainly to receive payments.

To apply for a Till Number, you will need the following documents:

• Duly filled and signed application form and Terms and conditions
• Copy of Business Registration/or Business Permit
• Individual or company KRA Pin (Not Mandatory)
• Copy of Identification Documents of Persons Opening the account, i.e., Copy of the National ID/ Military Service Number (Passport/Alien Certificate for Foreign Nationals).

You can get an Mpesa Business till in 3 ways:

Mpesa Business till From your bank 

Banks allow you to apply for a till number for free. They link it to your business banking account to help you ease your cash flow management issues.
You will need a running business, a bank account, and a duly completed application form to get a till number from a bank.

Mpesa Business till From Safaricom 

To get a till number from Safaricom, you can visit them with the required documents and let the staff help you. You can also register yourself by going to their website.
Once you complete the form, you will be required to wait 24 hours. You will receive the till details through SMS on the line that made the application.

You will then be required to activate the till using the nominated number. To activate, use the USSD *234#, select M-pesa Business Till and enter the store number received via SMS.

Mpesa Business till From Kopokopo 

To get your till number from Kopokopo, you will need these documents:

• Application form
• National ID-front and backside
• Renewed business permit or the business name certificate of registration
• KRA PIN-compulsory for businesses settling to the bank.
• Bank letter/canceled cheque for merchants settling to the bank

Go to their website and fill out the form. Add all the details required and follow all the instruction

Step 9: Register for Statutory Obligations

As a registered company in Kenya, you will have certain statutory obligations that you need to fulfill. These may include registering for the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Value Added Tax (VAT).

Make sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements and deadlines for these registrations to ensure compliance with the law.

Step 10: Set Up Your Accounting System

An accounting system will help the business owner keep track of their assets, liabilities, income, and cash flow. It helps them keep track of the financial performance of their business, enabling them to make better-informed decisions.

A good accounting system enables the business owner to plan, spot potential issues, identify strengths, and prove business viability. Setting up a formalized accounting system early helps you create essential financial reports.

To focus on your core business and avoid costly mistakes you may consider hiring part time CFO or accountant from Revise.

Step 10: Protect Your Business Name in Kenya

Your registered business name is now your property, and you have a duty to protect it. Many aspiring business owners are on the lookout for a good business name for their own businesses, and if yours is not in use, you may lose it.

To protect your business name, take the following actions:

a) Buy a Domain Name for Your Kenyan Busiess

A domain name is your online address. It helps your audience to find your business easily when they search you online. It is the name that they will type to find your business.

In order to protect your business name, you will need to purchase one. This is because when your domain name is up and running, no one else can use it. A domain name is unique to a business, and no other business can take it.

The best domain name is short, say between 6 to 14 characters. They are easier to read, stick better in the visitor’s memories and take less room on marketing materials. Make your domain name memorable and avoid numbers and hyphens.

To buy a domain name in Kenya, choose a reliable domain registrar that is authorized by ICANN or Communications Authority of Kenya. Some of these include DeepAfrica, KenyawebExperts, Godaddy, Bluehost,  etc. Use a domain availability checker tool to check the availability of your domain name.

All you have to do is to type your domain name on the search bar of the too. If your name is available, you will be alerted, so if not, they will give you suggestions of names nearest your chosen name.

You can choose any of these or search for another name. If the extension you want, like .com, is unavailable, you can consider a .net, or .org or whichever you think can work for you.

Once you get your desired domain name, purchase it and complete its registration. You will be required to enter your contact information.

b) Create Social Media Accounts 

Creating social media accounts for your business using your business name is a great way to safeguard it. No one will use your name to create them after you’ve done it.

Business social media accounts help you track users and posts to know what posts people see and the content they like interacting with. You can also use paid and promoted posts and ads, something you cannot get from your personal account.

To create your business social media accounts, you will need a business email address that will keep all your notifications organized in one place.

That also means that if you need to give an assistant, social media manager or employee access to your social media accounts to manage them on your behalf, you will not need to give them your personal email.

You don’t have to set up social media accounts on all social channels. You only need to choose a few that are relevant to your industry.

Each social channel has different rules and requirements, so you must read through the specific requirements. All channels are easy to set up, and you will only need basic business information, a logo and a photo.

c) Create a Google My Business Profile 

Google My Business profile is a free business listing from Google which allows you to provide details and photos of your business. It also allows you to include your location, services and products.

A Google My Business profile will help you increase visibility online, and your information may appear on Google Maps, Google Search and Google Shopping.

When you create this profile, you easily get discovered by people looking for products and services that you sell.

It will show searchers where and how to visit your business. It will improve your local SEO and increase both foot and web traffic.

A Google My Business profile allows you to control and update your business information, such as contact information, business hours, and other details.

You can also post updates like expanded services, offers, temporarily closed or reopened, etc. Customers can leave reviews through your Google My Business profile and help you build trust and credibility.

To create a Google My Business profile, you will need to have a Google account. Go to their website and sign in. Follow the prompts by providing the details requested.

Enter your business name, location, and contact information, and verify your business. Customize your profile by entering your business hours, messaging preferences, business description and photos.

Checklist for Company Registration in Kenya

1. Proposed company/business name;

2. Objectives of the company/business;

3. Names of the Directors, Contact details and email addresses;

4. Passport photo (copy) for each director;

5. Identity card (for Kenyan Citizens)or Foreign National Registration Certificate – Alien Card (for foreigners residing in Kenya) or Passport (for nonresident foreign nationals);

6. Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN certificate (copy) for each Director with Kenyan citizenship;

7. Duly signed copy of Notice of Registered Address Form (CR8) by all Directors;

8. Duly signed copy of Company Registration Form (CR1) by all Directors;

9. Duly signed copy of Memorandum of a Company with Share Capital Form (CR2)by all Directors; and

10. Duly signed copy of Statement of Nominal Capital by allDirectors

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does it take to register a company in Kenya?

The Company registration process takes about 7 days after making payment and submitting the requirements for company registration and the duly completed forms.

Conclusion

Registering a company in Kenya involves several steps, from choosing a business name to fulfilling statutory obligations. By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the registration process with ease and ensure that your company is legally registered and compliant with the relevant laws and regulations.